Glamping options near Windsor Locks, Connecticut extend beyond the popular venues mentioned in area guidebooks. Located in the Connecticut River Valley at 160 feet elevation, this area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers and moderate winters. Most campgrounds close from late October through mid-April due to the region's cold, snowy winters and spring mud season.
What to do
Riverside recreation access: At White Pines Campsites, camping enthusiasts enjoy direct water activities. "I was there with my two sons on a cold, rainy weekend very early in the season - not many other campers. The sites are good size and seemed well laid out," noted a visitor about the park's spacious riverside sites.
Mountain hiking trails: The surrounding area features several elevations for hiking. "Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country. That being said, it's more rewarding when you find a little gem like Wilderness Lake Campground," one camper shared, adding "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property."
Fall foliage viewing: Autumn brings spectacular color displays from mid-September through late October. "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," a visitor reported about their experience at Northampton / Springfield KOA.
What campers like
Free water equipment: Many glamping sites offer complimentary water equipment. "Immediately entering the campground a kid (maybe early 20s) greeted us at our truck and showed us where to pull over for our paperwork. He escorted us to our site and made sure we had everything we needed as we set up. Beautiful views, spacious site and lots to do. They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," shared a Wilderness Lake camper.
Swimming options: Multiple water bodies provide swimming opportunities from May through September. "I flew up here from Louisiana and met my sister in a primitive tent site. The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing," noted a visitor to Brialee Family Campground.
Clean shower facilities: Upgraded bathroom facilities enhance the glamping experience. "Brand new bathroom/shower facility this year. Offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Nice and quiet also," reported a camper at Wells State Park, highlighting recent improvements.
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Several glamping venues near Windsor Locks maintain traditional payment systems. "We only stayed one night, as we are headed north on a road trip. But wow, this place is really beautiful. Some sites are close together, but it doesn't feel packed. The employees and owners also went out of the way to accommodate our late arrival which was very much appreciated. Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared," advised a Wilderness Lake Park visitor.
Site selection importance: Choosing the right site makes a significant difference. "We stayed at site 85 in Sunny Crest and liked having some privacy. The sites nearby had some trees providing space between each site. A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped—I would recommend a drive though if you can beforehand," suggested a White Pines camper.
Wildlife awareness: Native wildlife frequently visits camping areas. "Beware of bears. We and several other neighboring campers spied a pretty big black bear not far enough away in the late morning hours. I'm sure they are fed well," warned a camper at White Pines, emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused weekends: Lake Compounce Campground offers unique programming. "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station," noted a reviewer about this campground that combines glamping with amusement park access.
Multiple play areas: Dedicated children's spaces provide entertainment throughout the day. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar," reported a visitor to Prospect Mountain Campground.
Family-friendly scheduling: Many campgrounds accommodate family routines. "This was our first time visiting and my entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!" shared an enthusiastic visitor to Charlie Brown Campground.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Several glamping sites near Windsor Locks provide accessible RV sites. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper," noted a visitor to Lake Compounce Campground.
Site layout considerations: Understanding the orientation of sites matters for comfort. "We had a nice quite spot even though we where in the road to the lake," mentioned a Prospect Mountain Campground seasonal camper, highlighting that even sites near common areas can provide adequate privacy.
Late checkout options: Extended departure times allow for less rushed experience. "We did a late checkout for $5 extra, but the noon checkout and two dump stations would make leaving on time a non-issue as well," shared a Charlie Brown Campground visitor, noting the flexibility offered to departing campers.
